If you’re searching for a peaceful escape into Japan’s stunning landscapes, Kamikochi Japan is a must-visit. Tucked away in the Northern Japanese Alps, this nature lover’s paradise offers breathtaking mountain views, crystal-clear ponds, and a hiking experience you’ll never forget. Here’s a detailed look at my recent trip, where we explored the wonders of Kamikochi, including how to get there by train from Tokyo and the best time to visit.
Our adventure started at Nagawa Dam Lake, an impressive 155-meter-high concrete arch dam built along the Asuza River. This engineering marvel is the largest dam in Nagano Prefecture. We parked at the lot next to the dam and took in the views while strolling around the area. The serene lake, framed by towering mountains, was a great way to kick off our trip.
How to Get to Kamikochi Japan: No Private Car Policy
It’s important to note that Kamikochi enforces a no-private-car policy to preserve the area’s natural beauty. If you’re driving from the Matsumoto side, you’ll need to park at Sawando Parking (¥700 fee). For those coming from the Takayama side, parking is available at Akandana Parking. From Sawando, we transferred to a shuttle bus, as private vehicles are not allowed inside Kamikochi.
At Sawando, we purchased round-trip bus tickets for ¥2,400 per person at the ticket machine. The bus ride lasted about 30 minutes, winding through breathtaking mountain views before dropping us off at the Taisho Pond bus stop—a perfect starting point for our hike into Kamikochi.
Hiking from Taisho Pond to Kamikochi
We chose to begin our adventure at Taisho Pond, which is just two stops before Kamikochi’s main bus terminal. Taisho Pond offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains reflected in the still waters, especially during autumn when the vibrant foliage paints the landscape in warm hues. Starting from here, we embarked on a hike that led us through scenic trails, with the soft crunch of leaves beneath our feet and the crisp mountain air filling our lungs.
One of the highlights of the hike was encountering adorable monkeys along the way. These curious creatures seemed accustomed to human presence and went about their business without a care, making for some cute photo opportunities! However, it’s essential to stay alert. Kamikochi is home to bears, so bringing a cowbell, which most hikers wear to alert wildlife of their presence, is a good precaution to avoid startling any animals.
As we continued along the trail, we soaked in the peaceful atmosphere, listening to the gentle rustling of leaves and the sound of the river nearby. Our route led us to Kappa Bridge, a picturesque wooden suspension bridge with a backdrop of towering peaks, where many hikers gather to take in the beauty of Kamikochi.
Best Time to Visit Kamikochi Japan
Kamikochi opens to the public from mid-April until mid-November. Outside of this period, most shops, hotels, and facilities close for the winter season. If you’re visiting in the fall, like we did, you’ll be treated to spectacular views of the autumn leaves, with the changing colors of the trees adding even more magic to the already stunning landscape. The mild weather during this time makes it ideal for hiking and exploring the park.
Alternative Routes: Bus from Shinjuku
For those traveling from Tokyo, you can also reach Kamikochi via a direct bus from Shinjuku. It’s a convenient option for visitors looking to avoid driving or parking hassles. You can easily book your bus tickets online. Follow this link to reserve your seat: Book your bus from Shinjuku to Kamikochi.
